From the Studio

Stories, sessions, and studio updates from Jessica Doffing Photography

For Photographers Jessica Doffing For Photographers Jessica Doffing

7 Newborn Bed Prop Poses Every Photographer Should Know

If you're ready to move beyond the beanbag, the newborn bed prop is one of the first props I recommend mastering. With just seven core poses, a few angle changes, and thoughtful styling, you can create 20+ unique images while keeping baby comfortable and settled. In this post, I'll walk you through my favorite newborn bed prop poses, safety considerations, styling ideas, and why this prop continues to be one of the hardest-working pieces in my studio.

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For Photographers Jessica Doffing For Photographers Jessica Doffing

How to Start a Legitimate Newborn Photography Business: The Less Glamorous Essentials Most Photographers Overlook

Starting a newborn photography business takes much more than buying cute props and learning to pose babies. This comprehensive guide walks you through the essential business foundations, from legal setup and insurance to pricing, SEO, workflow systems, safety education, and portfolio building, so you can launch your business with confidence. Plus, download the free printable Newborn Photography Business Startup Checklist to keep yourself organized every step of the way.

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Jessica Doffing Jessica Doffing

33 Creative Newborn Photo Ideas That Celebrate What Makes Your Family Unique

Classic newborn portraits will always have a place, but sometimes the most memorable images are inspired by the things your family loves most. From favorite books and careers to meaningful family traditions and delightfully over-the-top ideas, explore 35 creative newborn photo ideas that celebrate what makes your family unique.

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Jessica Doffing Jessica Doffing

How to Choose a Newborn Photography Mentor

Choosing a newborn photography mentor is about more than finding beautiful images. Learn what questions to ask, what to look for in a newborn photography workshop, and how to find a mentor whose experience, teaching style, and support align with your goals.

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Jessica Doffing Jessica Doffing

Soft Styling & Cozy Details for a Newborn Session

Soft textures, cozy details and delicate pink and cream tones made this newborn session feel both elegant and sweet. From wrapped poses to dreamy prop setups, this Austin studio session featured a beautiful mix of soft styling and timeless newborn photography inspiration.

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Jessica Doffing Jessica Doffing

Glitter, Confetti, and Pure Chaos (The Fun Kind)

Glitter sessions are playful, sparkly, and perfect for kids ages 4 and up. Think fancy dresses, confetti, personality-packed photos, and the most fun your child will ever have during a photoshoot.

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Jessica Doffing Jessica Doffing

Do Babies Need to Sleep for Newborn Photos? Here's What Happens If They Don't

Do babies need to sleep for newborn photos? Not necessarily. While sleeping babies allow for more traditional posed portraits, awake newborns can still create beautiful and memorable images. Here's what to expect if your baby decides to stay awake during their session and why photographers encourage sleep whenever possible.

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Jessica Doffing Jessica Doffing

The Kind of Photos That Matter Later

A collection of motherhood moments with newborns and toddlers - from cozy studio newborn portraits to playful outdoor sessions with older babies and kids. These are the photos that matter later.

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For Photographers Jessica Doffing For Photographers Jessica Doffing

How I Soothe Babies During Newborn Sessions (And Why It Usually Works)

One of the questions I hear most during newborn sessions is, “How are they sleeping through all of this?” The answer is usually a mix of patience, experience, understanding baby cues, and a few tried-and-true soothing techniques. Whether you’re a new parent or a photographer learning newborn posing, here are some of the methods I use to help babies stay calm, cozy, and sleepy during sessions.

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Jessica Doffing Jessica Doffing

Who Says It Has to Be Cake? 9 Fun First Birthday Smash Ideas

Not every baby wants cake… and not every parent wants frosting everywhere. 😅 Whether you’re avoiding processed sugar, your baby is obsessed with tacos, or you just want something a little more unique, these non-cake smash ideas make for adorable (and hilariously messy) first birthday photos.

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